From military-inspired details to performance-minded materials, the best coats are the timeless designs that are adaptable, functional and warm.

The Duffle Coat

Also known as a "toggle coat," this old world piece of outerwear was first made by England's Gloverall for the British military. The name is derived from Duffel, a town in Belgium where the thick, woolen material originates. And like any good classic, its straightforward styling never really went out of fashion. It's been sold to the public in the UK for decades and in the 1960s, became something of an Ivy League staple. It still looks damn good layered over a rugby shirt and some cuffed denim. This fall, the coat is seemingly everywhere—from a classic Gloverall lined with the British flag, to more modern cropped styles and plaid variations by Tommy Hilfiger and Shades of Grey.

FYI

The toggle fasteners, made of buffalo horn, wood or plastic, are known as "walrus teeth" and were created so you can button up while wearing thick gloves.